Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A method of generating electrical signal waveforms by a generator, the generator comprising a processor and a memory in communication with the processor, the memory defining a first and second table, the method comprising: retrieving, by the processor, stored phase points defining a first digital electrical signal wave shape of a first electrical signal waveform from the first table defined in the memory; retrieving, by the processor, stored phase points defining a second digital electrical signal wave shape of a second electrical signal waveform from the second table defined in the memory; combining, by the processor, the phase points of the first digital electrical signal wave shape and the phase points of the second digital electrical signal wave shape to create a combined wave shape of an electrical signal waveform for performing a surgical procedure; and delivering the combined wave shape electrical signal waveform for performing the surgical procedure to a surgical instrument.
This invention relates to a method for generating electrical signal waveforms used in surgical procedures. The system employs a generator with a processor and memory, where the memory stores two tables containing phase points that define digital electrical signal waveforms. The first table stores phase points for a first waveform, and the second table stores phase points for a second waveform. The processor retrieves these phase points and combines them to create a new, combined waveform. This combined waveform is then delivered to a surgical instrument for use in a surgical procedure. The method allows for the generation of customized electrical signals by merging predefined waveforms, enabling precise control over the electrical output for surgical applications. The system avoids the need for real-time waveform calculations, improving efficiency and reliability. The combined waveform can be tailored to specific surgical requirements, such as cutting, coagulation, or other tissue interactions, by selecting and combining appropriate stored waveforms. This approach enhances the flexibility and adaptability of surgical instruments in performing various procedures.
2. The method of claim 1 , wherein the memory is a first memory, the first table is defined by the first memory, and the second table is defined by a second memory.
A system and method for managing data storage involves using multiple memory units to define separate data tables. The invention addresses the challenge of efficiently organizing and accessing data in computing systems by distributing data across distinct memory resources. A first memory unit is used to define and store a first data table, while a second memory unit is used to define and store a second data table. This separation allows for improved data management, such as parallel processing, independent access, or specialized storage configurations for different types of data. The method ensures that data in the first table remains isolated from the second table, preventing unintended interactions or conflicts. This approach can enhance performance, security, or scalability in applications requiring structured data storage, such as databases, caching systems, or embedded systems. The use of separate memories enables customization of storage parameters, such as access speed, capacity, or durability, tailored to the specific needs of each table. The invention is particularly useful in environments where different data sets require distinct handling, such as real-time systems, distributed computing, or multi-tenant applications.
3. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first digital electrical signal wave shape is associated with a radio frequency (RF) electrical signal waveform and the second digital electrical signal wave shape is associated with an ultrasonic electrical signal waveform.
This invention relates to a method for generating and processing digital electrical signals with distinct waveform characteristics. The method involves producing a first digital electrical signal with a waveform shape corresponding to a radio frequency (RF) signal and a second digital electrical signal with a waveform shape corresponding to an ultrasonic signal. These signals are generated using a digital signal processor (DSP) or a field-programmable gate array (FPGA) to ensure precise control over their waveforms. The method further includes transmitting the RF signal through an antenna and the ultrasonic signal through a transducer, enabling applications in wireless communication, sensing, or imaging. The system may also include a receiver to capture and process the transmitted signals, converting them back into digital form for analysis. The invention addresses the need for precise waveform generation and transmission in systems requiring both RF and ultrasonic signals, such as medical imaging, non-destructive testing, or wireless data transmission. The method ensures synchronization and compatibility between the two signal types, improving system performance and reliability.
4. The method of claim 1 , wherein the first digital electrical signal wave shape is associated with a first ultrasonic electrical signal waveform and the second digital electrical signal wave shape is associated with a second ultrasonic electrical signal waveform.
This invention relates to digital signal processing for ultrasonic applications, specifically methods for generating and processing digital electrical signals that correspond to ultrasonic waveforms. The technology addresses the challenge of accurately representing and manipulating ultrasonic signals in digital form, which is critical for applications such as medical imaging, non-destructive testing, and industrial sensing. The method involves converting analog ultrasonic signals into digital electrical signals, where the digital signals are shaped to match specific ultrasonic waveforms. The first digital electrical signal is configured to represent a first ultrasonic waveform, while the second digital electrical signal is configured to represent a second ultrasonic waveform. These waveforms may differ in frequency, amplitude, phase, or other characteristics, allowing for precise control over the ultrasonic signals generated or processed. The method further includes steps for generating, transmitting, or analyzing these digital signals, ensuring that the ultrasonic waveforms are accurately reproduced or interpreted. This approach enables improved signal fidelity, noise reduction, and enhanced performance in ultrasonic systems. The technique is particularly useful in applications requiring high-resolution signal processing, such as medical diagnostics or material analysis, where accurate waveform representation is essential.
5. The method of claim 1 , comprising creating the first and second table by a direct digital synthesis circuit coupled to the processor.
A digital signal processing system generates lookup tables for waveform synthesis using a direct digital synthesis (DDS) circuit. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently producing high-quality waveforms with minimal computational overhead. The DDS circuit, connected to a processor, generates the first and second lookup tables, which store precomputed waveform samples. These tables enable rapid waveform reconstruction by interpolating between stored values, reducing the need for real-time calculations. The DDS circuit synthesizes waveforms by combining phase accumulation and phase-to-amplitude conversion, where the lookup tables store amplitude values corresponding to discrete phase increments. The processor controls the DDS circuit to generate the tables, ensuring accurate and repeatable waveform generation. This approach improves signal fidelity and reduces processing latency compared to traditional methods that rely solely on real-time computations. The system is particularly useful in applications requiring precise waveform generation, such as communications, radar, and test instrumentation.
6. The method of claim 5 , comprising: addressing, by the processor, the first table according to a frequency of the first electrical signal waveform; and addressing, by the processor, the second table according to a frequency of the second electrical signal waveform.
This invention relates to signal processing, specifically a method for analyzing electrical signal waveforms using frequency-based table addressing. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and accurate waveform analysis, particularly in systems where multiple electrical signals must be processed in real-time or with high precision. The method involves using two distinct lookup tables to process first and second electrical signal waveforms. The first table is addressed by the processor based on the frequency of the first electrical signal waveform, while the second table is addressed based on the frequency of the second electrical signal waveform. This approach allows for rapid retrieval of precomputed values or parameters associated with each waveform's frequency, enabling faster processing and reducing computational overhead. The tables may contain precomputed data such as amplitude values, phase information, or other waveform characteristics, which are accessed directly using the waveform frequencies as indices. This method is particularly useful in applications like signal modulation, demodulation, or spectral analysis, where real-time performance is critical. By separating the processing of the two waveforms into distinct tables, the system can handle multiple signals independently, improving efficiency and scalability. The technique may also be applied in communication systems, radar, or medical devices where precise waveform analysis is required.
7. The method of claim 5 , comprising: storing, by the processor, information associated with the first digital electrical signal wave shape in the memory; and storing, by the processor, information associated with the second digital electrical signal wave shape.
This invention relates to digital signal processing, specifically methods for storing and analyzing electrical signal waveforms. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently capture and retain detailed information about digital electrical signals, particularly when multiple waveforms are involved. The invention provides a solution by storing digital representations of electrical signal waveforms in memory for further processing or analysis. The method involves processing a first digital electrical signal wave shape and a second digital electrical signal wave shape. The first wave shape is analyzed to extract relevant information, which is then stored in memory. Similarly, the second wave shape undergoes the same process, with its associated information also stored in memory. This allows for the retention of waveform data for later use, such as comparison, pattern recognition, or signal validation. The stored information may include amplitude, frequency, phase, or other characteristics of the waveforms. By storing both waveforms, the method enables analysis of their relationships, such as phase differences, amplitude variations, or timing discrepancies. This is particularly useful in applications like signal integrity testing, communication systems, or power distribution monitoring, where accurate waveform data is critical. The invention ensures that waveform information is preserved for detailed analysis, improving the reliability and accuracy of signal processing systems.
8. The method of claim 1 , comprising: receiving, by the processor, a feedback signal associated with tissue parameters; and modifying the first and second wave shapes according to the feedback signal.
This invention relates to a system for delivering electrical stimulation to tissue, particularly for medical or therapeutic purposes. The system addresses the challenge of optimizing electrical stimulation waveforms to achieve desired physiological effects while minimizing adverse side effects. Traditional stimulation methods often use fixed waveforms, which may not adapt to changes in tissue properties or patient conditions, leading to suboptimal therapy or unintended consequences. The system generates and delivers electrical stimulation to tissue using at least two distinct waveform shapes, each designed to target specific tissue parameters or physiological responses. The waveforms are dynamically adjusted based on real-time feedback signals derived from tissue parameters, such as impedance, temperature, or neural activity. This adaptive approach ensures that the stimulation remains effective and safe as tissue conditions change. The feedback signal is continuously monitored and analyzed to assess the impact of the stimulation. The system then modifies the waveform shapes in response to this feedback, adjusting parameters such as amplitude, frequency, or pulse duration to optimize therapeutic outcomes. For example, if the feedback indicates reduced efficacy, the system may increase the amplitude of one waveform while decreasing the frequency of another. This closed-loop control mechanism enhances precision and adaptability in tissue stimulation applications. The invention is particularly useful in medical devices like pacemakers, neurostimulators, or muscle stimulators, where precise and responsive stimulation is critical.
9. A method of generating electrical signal waveforms by a generator, the generator comprising a processor and a memory in communication with the processor, the memory defining a first and second table, the method comprising: retrieving, by the processor, information from the first table defined in the memory, wherein the information from the first table is associated with a first wave shape of a first electrical signal waveform for performing a surgical procedure; retrieving, by the processor, information from the second table defined in the memory, wherein the information from the second table is associated with a second wave shape of a second electrical signal waveform for performing a surgical procedure; delivering the first and second electrical signal waveforms for performing a surgical procedure to a surgical instrument; wherein delivering the first and second electrical signal waveforms comprises at least one of: switching between the first and second electrical signal waveforms and synchronizing the first and second electrical signal waveforms; receiving a feedback signal associated with tissue parameters; and based on the received feedback signal, and while delivering the first and second electrical signal waveforms, determining whether to: switch from a first phase point of the first electrical signal waveform to a second phase point of the second electrical signal waveform and convert the second phase point to a first analog signal; or to synchronize delivery of the first and the second phase points and convert the synchronized phase points to a second analog signal.
This invention relates to a method for generating electrical signal waveforms used in surgical procedures. The system employs a generator with a processor and memory, where the memory stores two tables containing waveform data. The first table holds information defining a first waveform shape for a first electrical signal used in surgery, while the second table contains data for a second waveform shape of a second electrical signal also used in surgery. The generator retrieves these waveform data and delivers the corresponding electrical signals to a surgical instrument. The delivery process may involve switching between the two waveforms or synchronizing them. During operation, the system receives feedback signals related to tissue parameters. Based on this feedback, the generator dynamically adjusts the waveform delivery by either switching from a phase point of the first waveform to a phase point of the second waveform and converting it to an analog signal, or synchronizing the phase points of both waveforms and converting them into a synchronized analog signal. This adaptive approach ensures precise control over the electrical signals applied during surgery, enhancing procedural accuracy and safety.
10. The method of claim 9 , comprising: maximizing power delivered to the surgical instrument.
A surgical power delivery system optimizes energy transfer to a surgical instrument during operation. The system monitors the instrument's electrical characteristics, such as impedance, and adjusts power output in real-time to maintain optimal performance. This ensures consistent cutting, coagulation, or other surgical functions while minimizing energy waste and thermal damage to surrounding tissue. The system may include feedback control loops that dynamically regulate voltage, current, or frequency based on sensed parameters. Additionally, the system may incorporate safety mechanisms to prevent overheating or excessive power delivery. By continuously adapting to changing surgical conditions, the system enhances precision and efficiency in minimally invasive or open surgical procedures. The technology is particularly useful in electrosurgical devices, where precise energy control is critical for patient safety and procedural outcomes.
11. The method of claim 9 , wherein the first electrical signal waveform represents a RF waveform and the second electrical signal waveform represents an ultrasonic signal waveform.
This invention relates to a method for generating and processing electrical signals in a system that combines radio frequency (RF) and ultrasonic signal waveforms. The method addresses the challenge of integrating these distinct signal types, which operate at vastly different frequencies, into a unified system for applications such as medical imaging, non-destructive testing, or wireless communication. The method involves generating a first electrical signal waveform representing an RF waveform and a second electrical signal waveform representing an ultrasonic signal waveform. These waveforms are produced using separate signal generation circuits or a single circuit capable of generating both types of signals. The RF waveform typically operates in the radio frequency range (e.g., 3 kHz to 300 GHz), while the ultrasonic signal operates at frequencies above human hearing (typically 20 kHz to several GHz). The method further includes processing these signals to ensure compatibility and synchronization. This may involve frequency conversion, amplification, modulation, or demodulation to enable the RF and ultrasonic signals to coexist or interact within the same system. The processed signals can then be transmitted, received, or analyzed for their intended application. For example, in medical imaging, the RF signal may be used for wireless communication, while the ultrasonic signal is used for imaging tissue. The method ensures that the two signal types do not interfere with each other and can be effectively utilized in a single system.
12. The method of claim 9 , wherein the first wave shape is associated with a first ultrasonic electrical signal waveform and the second wave shape is associated with a second ultrasonic electrical signal waveform.
This invention relates to ultrasonic signal processing, specifically methods for generating and analyzing distinct ultrasonic waveforms to improve detection or characterization of materials or structures. The method involves producing at least two different ultrasonic wave shapes, each corresponding to a unique ultrasonic electrical signal waveform. These waveforms are generated to interact with a target material or structure, and the resulting responses are analyzed to extract information about the material's properties or structural integrity. The distinct waveforms may be used to enhance resolution, reduce interference, or differentiate between multiple features within the material. The technique is particularly useful in non-destructive testing (NDT) applications, where accurate material characterization is critical. By using multiple waveforms, the method improves the reliability and accuracy of ultrasonic inspections compared to single-waveform approaches. The invention may also include additional steps such as signal filtering, amplification, or data processing to refine the analysis. The use of multiple waveforms allows for more comprehensive material evaluation, addressing limitations of traditional single-waveform ultrasonic testing methods.
13. A method of generating electrical signal waveforms by a generator, the generator comprising a processor and a memory in communication with the processor, the memory defining a first and second table, the method comprising: retrieving, by the processor, information from the first table defined in the memory, wherein the information from the first table is associated with a first wave shape of a first electrical signal waveform for performing a surgical procedure; retrieving, by the processor, information from the second table defined in the memory, wherein the information from the second table is associated with a second wave shape of a second electrical signal waveform for performing a surgical procedure; and combining, by the processor, the first and second wave shapes to create a combined wave shape of an electrical signal waveform for performing a surgical procedure; delivering the combined wave shape electrical signal waveform for performing the surgical procedure to a surgical instrument; and modifying, by the processor, the combined wave shape of the electrical signal waveform to form a modified electrical signal waveform, the modified electrical signal waveform comprising a peak amplitude that does not exceed a predetermined amplitude and is less than a peak amplitude of the combined wave shape.
This invention relates to a method for generating electrical signal waveforms used in surgical procedures. The method addresses the need for precise and controlled electrical signals in surgical instruments, ensuring safety and effectiveness during operations. The system includes a generator with a processor and memory, where the memory stores two tables containing waveform data. The first table holds information defining a first waveform shape for a surgical electrical signal, while the second table contains data for a second waveform shape. The processor retrieves and combines these waveforms to create a new, composite waveform tailored for surgical use. This combined waveform is then delivered to a surgical instrument. Additionally, the processor modifies the combined waveform to ensure its peak amplitude does not exceed a predetermined safe limit, reducing the risk of tissue damage while maintaining therapeutic effectiveness. The method allows for flexible waveform generation and real-time adjustments, enhancing the precision and safety of surgical procedures.
14. The method of claim 13 , wherein the first wave shape is associated with a first radio frequency (RF) electrical signal waveform and the second wave shape is associated with a second RF electrical signal waveform.
This invention relates to wireless communication systems, specifically methods for generating and processing radio frequency (RF) electrical signal waveforms to improve communication efficiency and reliability. The problem addressed is the need for more effective waveform shaping techniques to enhance signal transmission and reception in RF communication systems. The method involves generating a first RF electrical signal waveform with a specific wave shape and a second RF electrical signal waveform with a different wave shape. These waveforms are designed to optimize signal properties such as bandwidth, power efficiency, and interference resistance. The first and second waveforms may be used in different phases of communication, such as transmission and reception, or in different frequency bands to reduce interference and improve spectral efficiency. The wave shapes can be tailored to specific communication protocols or environmental conditions to ensure robust signal integrity. The method may also include adjusting the wave shapes dynamically based on real-time conditions, such as channel quality, noise levels, or signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) measurements. This adaptability allows the system to maintain optimal performance under varying operational conditions. The waveforms can be generated using digital signal processing techniques, including filtering, modulation, and pulse shaping, to achieve the desired characteristics. By employing distinct wave shapes for different RF signals, the invention enhances the overall performance of wireless communication systems, reducing errors and improving data throughput. This approach is particularly useful in high-density communication environments where minimizing interference and maximizing spectral efficiency are critical.
15. The method of claim 13 , wherein the first wave shape is associated with a first ultrasonic electrical signal waveform and the second wave shape is associated with a second ultrasonic electrical signal waveform.
This invention relates to ultrasonic signal processing, specifically methods for generating and analyzing ultrasonic waveforms to improve detection or measurement accuracy. The technology addresses challenges in distinguishing between different ultrasonic signals in noisy environments or when multiple signals are present, which can lead to errors in applications such as medical imaging, non-destructive testing, or material analysis. The method involves generating at least two distinct ultrasonic waveforms, each with a unique wave shape. The first wave shape is linked to a first ultrasonic electrical signal waveform, while the second wave shape corresponds to a second ultrasonic electrical signal waveform. These waveforms may differ in frequency, amplitude, phase, or other characteristics to ensure they can be uniquely identified and processed. The method may also include transmitting these waveforms into a medium, such as tissue or a material, and analyzing the reflected or transmitted signals to extract meaningful data. By using distinct waveforms, the system can better isolate and interpret signals, reducing interference and improving accuracy in applications where multiple signals are present. The approach may also involve comparing the received signals to the original waveforms to enhance signal-to-noise ratio or detect specific features. This technique is particularly useful in scenarios where traditional single-waveform methods struggle with signal ambiguity or environmental noise.
16. The method of claim 13 , wherein the first wave shape is associated with a RF electrical signal waveform and the second wave shape is associated with an ultrasonic electrical signal waveform.
This invention relates to a method for generating and processing electrical signals in a system that combines radio frequency (RF) and ultrasonic signal waveforms. The method addresses the challenge of integrating these distinct signal types, which operate at vastly different frequencies and require different processing techniques, into a unified system for applications such as medical imaging, non-destructive testing, or communication systems. The method involves generating a first wave shape corresponding to an RF electrical signal waveform and a second wave shape corresponding to an ultrasonic electrical signal waveform. These waveforms are processed separately to account for their unique characteristics. The RF signal, typically in the range of kilohertz to gigahertz, is used for high-frequency communication or sensing, while the ultrasonic signal, typically in the range of 20 kHz to several megahertz, is used for imaging or material analysis. The method ensures that the two waveforms are synchronized and compatible within the same system, allowing for simultaneous or sequential operation without interference. The system may include signal generation, modulation, and processing components tailored to each waveform type. The RF signal may be modulated for data transmission or sensing, while the ultrasonic signal may be shaped for pulse-echo imaging or acoustic wave propagation. The method ensures that the system can dynamically switch between or combine the two signal types as needed, improving functionality in applications requiring both RF and ultrasonic capabilities.
17. The method of claim 13 , comprising determining, by the processor, the peak amplitude of the combined electrical signal waveform while delivering the combined electrical signal waveform to the surgical instrument.
This invention relates to a method for monitoring and controlling electrical signals delivered to surgical instruments, particularly during electrosurgical procedures. The method addresses the challenge of ensuring precise and safe energy delivery by dynamically analyzing the electrical signal waveform in real-time. The system involves generating a combined electrical signal waveform by superimposing a high-frequency carrier signal onto a lower-frequency modulation signal. This combined waveform is then delivered to the surgical instrument, such as an electrosurgical device, to perform tissue cutting or coagulation. The method includes determining the peak amplitude of the combined electrical signal waveform during delivery to the surgical instrument. This peak amplitude measurement is used to monitor and adjust the energy output, ensuring optimal performance while minimizing risks like tissue damage or unintended effects. The system may also include feedback mechanisms to dynamically adjust the waveform parameters based on the measured peak amplitude, improving control and safety during surgical procedures. The invention is particularly useful in electrosurgical applications where precise energy delivery is critical for effective and safe tissue treatment.
18. The method of claim 13 , comprising reducing an amplitude of the combined electrical signal waveform prior to an occurrence of the peak amplitude of the combined electrical signal waveform.
This invention relates to signal processing techniques for managing electrical signal waveforms, particularly in systems where multiple signals are combined and their amplitude needs to be controlled. The problem addressed is the need to reduce the amplitude of a combined electrical signal waveform before it reaches its peak amplitude, which can prevent signal distortion, improve system stability, or enhance performance in applications such as power electronics, communications, or sensor systems. The method involves generating a combined electrical signal waveform by combining at least two input electrical signals. The combined waveform is then monitored to detect its amplitude characteristics, including the occurrence of a peak amplitude. Before the peak amplitude is reached, the amplitude of the combined waveform is actively reduced. This reduction can be achieved through various techniques, such as applying a gain control mechanism, using a feedback loop, or employing a dynamic attenuation circuit. The reduction is applied in a controlled manner to ensure that the signal remains within desired operational limits without introducing unwanted artifacts or disruptions. The method may also include additional steps such as filtering the combined waveform to remove noise or unwanted frequencies, adjusting the phase of the input signals to optimize their combination, or dynamically adjusting the reduction amount based on real-time signal conditions. The technique is particularly useful in systems where signal peaks could cause saturation, overload, or other performance degradation, ensuring reliable and efficient signal processing.
19. The method of claim 13 , comprising determining the peak amplitude of the combined electrical signal waveform and modifying the combined electrical signal waveform based on the determined peak amplitude of the combined electrical signal waveform.
This invention relates to signal processing, specifically methods for analyzing and modifying combined electrical signal waveforms. The technology addresses the challenge of accurately processing and adjusting signal waveforms that result from the combination of multiple electrical signals, which can be prone to distortion or interference. The method involves first obtaining a combined electrical signal waveform, which is derived from the aggregation of multiple individual electrical signals. The combined waveform is then analyzed to determine its peak amplitude, which represents the highest point of the signal's voltage or current over a given time period. This peak amplitude is a critical parameter for assessing the signal's strength and quality. Once the peak amplitude is determined, the combined electrical signal waveform is modified based on this value. The modification may involve adjusting the waveform's amplitude, phase, or other characteristics to improve signal clarity, reduce noise, or enhance compatibility with downstream processing or transmission systems. The modification process ensures that the signal remains within optimal operating parameters, thereby improving the reliability and accuracy of subsequent signal analysis or applications. This approach is particularly useful in applications where precise signal control is required, such as in telecommunications, medical devices, or industrial monitoring systems. By dynamically adjusting the waveform based on its peak amplitude, the method helps maintain signal integrity and performance in varying operational conditions.
20. The method of claim 1 , wherein the delivered combined wave shape electrical signal is delivered through a single output port of the generator.
This invention relates to electrical signal generation systems, specifically methods for delivering combined waveform electrical signals through a single output port. The technology addresses the challenge of efficiently generating and delivering multiple waveform signals, such as sine, square, or pulse waves, without requiring separate output channels for each waveform. Traditional systems often use multiple output ports or complex switching mechanisms to deliver different waveforms, increasing cost and complexity. The invention simplifies this process by combining multiple waveform signals into a single electrical signal and delivering it through a single output port. The combined waveform signal is generated by superimposing or modulating different waveform components, ensuring they can be transmitted simultaneously without interference. The system may include a signal generator that produces the individual waveforms, a combiner circuit to merge them, and an output port that delivers the combined signal to a load or device. The invention is particularly useful in applications requiring versatile signal generation, such as testing, medical devices, or communication systems, where space and cost constraints limit the use of multiple output channels. By consolidating waveform delivery into a single port, the system reduces hardware complexity, improves efficiency, and lowers manufacturing costs.
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April 21, 2020
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